Radiation therapy
is the use of penetrating beams of high-energy waves or streams of particles called radiation to treat disease. Radiation therapy destroys the ability of cancer cells to grow and divide.

Radiation therapy may be used to treat bladder cancer. There are some studies that are looking into the use of radiation therapy done prior to surgical procedures for bladder cancer. Other times, this treatment is used when a patient cannot withstand surgical treatment or does not want to undergo it. Radiation therapy may also be used in conjunction with other types of treatment for bladder cancer, including
surgery
,
chemotherapy
, and/or
immunotherapy
when surgery alone is not able to remove and control the cancer.

Types of Radiotherapy Used for Bladder Cancer

External radiation therapy can be used in the treatment of bladder cancer. In external radiation therapy, rays are directed at the tumor from outside the body.

External radiation therapy is usually given on an outpatient basis for three to five minutes, five days a week, over the course of five to seven weeks.

Effectiveness

Radiation therapy can be an effective type of treatment for superficial bladder cancer. However, it is less effective when used as the only treatment for curing invasive bladder cancer. Radiation therapy for invasive bladder cancer is most effective when it is given in conjunction with other types of treatment, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and/or immunotherapy.

Side Effects and Possible Complications

In addition to the side effects of radiation therapy, radiation therapy to treat bladder cancer may cause the following side effects:

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.